WTMA Center of Gravity and Stability 2

Question 1

A forklift carries a heavy load at a raised height. Compared to carrying the same load at ground level, the forklift is:

Accepted Answer

Less stable because the center of gravity is higher

Answer

Raising a load raises the combined center of gravity, reducing stability and increasing tip-over risk.

Question 2

Two identical boxes are placed on a shelf — one near the front edge and one near the back. Which arrangement is more stable?

Accepted Answer

Box near the back edge

Answer

The box placed farther from the edge (near the back) has its center of gravity well within the support base, making it more stable.

Question 3

A tall filing cabinet and a short, wide file drawer unit have the same weight. Which is more likely to tip over when a top drawer is pulled open?

Accepted Answer

The tall filing cabinet

Answer

The tall cabinet has a higher center of gravity, so opening a top drawer shifts weight farther from the base, increasing tip-over risk.

Question 4

A boat has passengers who all move to one side. What happens to the boat's stability?

Accepted Answer

Stability decreases as the center of gravity shifts toward the side

Answer

Shifting all passengers to one side moves the center of gravity laterally, reducing stability and risking capsizing.

Question 5

A ladder leaning against a wall is more stable when:

Accepted Answer

The base is spread farther from the wall at a shallower angle

Answer

A shallower ladder angle places the base farther out, widening the support base and lowering the effective center of gravity.

WTMA - Wiesen Test of Mechanical Aptitude Practice Test